By Shereen Siewert
A second challenger has emerged in the 2020 Wausau mayoral race, according to city officials.
Wausau City Clerk Toni Rayala said Chris Norfleet filed candidacy paperwork this month. Norfleet is co-founder of the local advocacy group, People for the Power of Love, and a key participant in the Toward One Wausau community project.
“Simply put, the period of exclusion must come to an end,” Norfleet said. “I believe the seeds of inclusion have been planted. I want to make sure they grow big and grow strong. Most importantly I do believe in the people in the community, I believe we all are ready.”
People for the Power of Love aims to bring people of all social and ethnic backgrounds in the community together through fellowship. Toward One Wausau “brings together community members from all walks of life to talk openly, listen earnestly and act in unity to make the greater Wausau area a safe, welcoming and attractive place for a diverse people,” according to the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service.
Katie Rosenberg, who represents Dist. 1 on the Marathon County Board, filed candidacy papers in April.
In the most recent mayoral election held in April 2016, current Mayor Rob Mielke defeated Jay Kronenwetter for the seat by a 1 percent margin.
Nomination papers or declarations of candidacy for April elections are due by 5 p.m. Jan. 5, 2020.
Photo courtesy of Chris Norfleet
